Albert Maysles (Photo : www.gimmesometruth.ca)
Director Albert Maysles, who alongside David Maysles, revolutionized documentary film-making passed away at 88, Thursday night.
The video company, which marketed most of Maysles films, the Criterion Collection, confirmed the heart-breaking news through a Facebook status.
"Our dear friend Albert Maysles passed away last night at the age of 88. We saw things through his lens that we will never forget. He was a filmmaker up until the end. We loved him and will miss him terribly," the company wrote.
Albert had been battling with pancreatic cancer, but has fallen ill only in February. The "Grey Gardens" filmmaker with his brother David were responsible for the films, "Gimme Shelter" and the "Salesman" died in his residence in New York City.
"It's with deep emotions that we announce the death of our father due to cancer. Albert was such a loving brother, father, husband, and friend to many," his family shared. "For several years, Albert has created films that have inspired filmmakers. He has touched many through his humanitarian ways, belief and presence in the name of love," they added.
Before succumbing to cancer, the legendary director wrote on his website:
"As a documentarian I happily place my fate and faith in reality. It is my caretaker, the provider of subjects, themes, experiences - all endowed with the power of truth and the romance of discovery... After all, the knowledge of the real world is what we need to better understand and to possibly love one another. This is my way of making the world a better place."
